Farewell to nearly 100 Valley deployed soldiers

Nearly 100 soldiers are now on their way from Fresno to Kuwait and Afghanistan.

The California Army National Guard held a farewell ceremony for the 11-06th Theater Aviation Sustainment Maintenance Group Saturday.

The soldiers are starting a one year deployment in support of operating enduring freedom.

They specialize in repairing and transporting aviation parts and systems. The first lieutenant told us he's feeling comfortable about the mission, thanks in part to some words of wisdom from his commander.

First Lt. Nathan Brooks said, "He gave me probably the best piece of advice. I was asking him sir, what should I expect? He said you can enjoy it or not enjoy it. I told him sir; I'll take the first option."

The 11-06th is one of four such specialized units in the country of which are part of the army national guard.